The Senate Standing Committee on Finance has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to halt the purchase of 1010 vehicles worth Rs6 billion. The committee has decided to write to the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister regarding this matter.

Sources indicate that the FBR’s planned vehicle purchase is likely to be canceled following the committee’s decision. The Prime Minister and the Finance Ministry are reportedly reviewing the matter after receiving the committee’s letter. The car company involved has also reportedly been informed.

This decision comes at a time when the government, which claims to prioritize austerity, is facing a tax collection shortfall of Rs6 trillion.

While an FBR spokesperson stated that they will comply with any government directives, they maintain that the purchase was necessary due to a shortage of vehicles for field staff and was made in accordance with established rules.

The spokesperson, Saeed Akram, clarified that no written instructions to halt the purchase have yet been received. He emphasized that the vehicles are intended for field operational staff who currently lack adequate transportation.

He also noted that the FBR has over 30,000 employees, with a significant number being field officers. The FBR had sent a letter to the car company requesting delivery within five months.